About
This FAQ section will help you understand our polytechnic positioning and how it benefits everyone connected to the EWU community. Explore the questions below to learn more about what it means to be The Region’s Polytechnic.
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs
No. There are no plans to change the name of the university at this time.
In 2023, the Board of Trustees challenged EWU to develop an identity that would help differentiate the university in the region’s crowded higher education landscape. We responded to that challenge by engaging the full campus community, using the strategic planning process, the work of the Identity and Marketing Workgroup, and surveys of hundreds of prospective and current students.
These terms are used interchangeably, inside and outside of higher education. They all refer to active learning that connects to real-world situations. In the surveys that EWU conducted, prospective and current students were most familiar with the term “hands-on learning.”
EWU is an integral partner in driving Eastern Washington’s economy and contributing to its social vitality. We also know that our impact extends beyond the immediate area. Our “region” includes Washington, our immediate neighboring states, and beyond—to everywhere our 120,000+ alumni are.
Prospective Students and Families FAQs
Everything that attracts students to EWU—the lowest in-state tuition, career-focused programs, a vibrant student life—remains the same. You’ll just have more—more opportunities for internships to explore the career paths you’re interested in and more hands-on learning experiences that will prepare you for success after graduation.
EWU will continue to offer the lowest in-state tuition, as well as remain in the Western Undergraduate Exchange, which reduces tuition for students in 14 states and 3 territories.
No, our application process remains the same. You will receive confirmation when your application has been received and is complete.
Current Student FAQs
EWU will continue to have the lowest in-state tuition in Washington, and we’ll still participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange.
No, academic program requirements are not changing at this time, but we will work on expanding your opportunities for internships, field placements, and other hands-on learning experiences.
During the past 18 months, we’ve surveyed hundreds of prospective and current students, as well as EWU graduates. The responses from those surveys informed the polytechnic decision.
EWU’s polytechnic messaging pillars of practical experience while in school and career preparation resonated strongly with students considering EWU and their parents/guardians.
EWU Alumni FAQs
No, the polytechnic positioning doesn’t change anything about our graduates’ credentials.
You can become an active member of the Eagle Career Network, where you can serve as a mentor, provide internships at your organization, and attend our campus job fairs.
EWU will continue to have the lowest in-state tuition in Washington, and we’ll still participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange, which reduces tuition for students in 14 states and 3 territories.
Regional Partners FAQs
Contact our Career Center at (509) 359-6365; careers@ewu.edu or post your job/internship using Handshake.
Create an account or login at ewu.joinhandshake.com.
- Add your company name and details.
- Wait to be approved by the Career Center staff.
- Start adding jobs. All jobs will be reviewed by the Career Center.
By combining the state’s lowest in-state tuition with degrees that lead to high-demand careers, EWU provides greater social and economic mobility for students, particularly those who are first-generation college students. This approach also supports the economic vitality and growth of the entire region.